500 WEDDING RINGS presents remarkable works of art from around the globe that capture the spirit of committed relationships. Each one is unique and the diversity of the entire collection is impressive. There are traditional pieces with masterfully set diamonds in precious metals along with conceptual works that reflect a more cutting-edge approach. These symbols of lives lived in unison will appeal to lovers.

There are few symbols as representative of commitment and the timelessness of love as the wedding ring. It has evolved in form countless times through the years. And in the imagination of a creative jeweler, this enduring icon can be interpreted in endlessly intriguing ways. The five hundred varied wedding rings in this international collection certainly illustrate that point.They have been chosen by Marthe Le Van, jewelry editor at Lark Books, who has curated many exhibitions and written extensively.

Some pieces, like Georgia Vandewater's Joined,are conceived to fit together,marrying each other to create a whole. Others, such as Divorce Ringby Annie Tung, are intentionally deconstructed. Still others, including the ice carving of Glynis Gardner's Lave You Long Time, are meant to last only for a single hour or day.

Introduction by Marthe Le Van, Juror

The Wedding Rings

Contributing Artists

Acknowledgments